Polaris Predator Test Riders
| Polaris Special Project, Sending Ordinary Riders To Test And Supply Feed-back On The New Predator 500! |
;) |
Calling all ATV enthusiasts, do you have what it takes? Are 
you Inquisitive, do you decipher ATV related performance issues well? Can you give accurate feedback to engineers, and product development factory reps? This is the notice that was published by ATV Connection during the kickoff to the Predator Test Crew Contest. Thousands of entries later, six lucky contestants were chosen….did we mention they were lucky? All grinning like kids in a candy store, the six were flown up to Polaris’ home, Roseau, Minnesota. Nestled in extreme northern Minnesota, Roseau is only ten miles shy of the Canadian border. This is as north as you can get, without ending every sentence in “eh”. A rural farming community, with deep scandinavian roots, the pace of life is shifted into a very relaxing, quality existence. People would rather talk about the weather and crops, than the latest stock market quotes. Everyone knows
everyone else, and politeness and helping others is the way ofthe town are echoed in the founding family of the Polaris factory. Greeted by the originator of Polaris David Johnson, and his son Mitchell, the contestants were treated to a one of a kind tour ofthe “Polaris Experience” history center. The nastalgia nut in everyone surfacing, they listened to the trials of the companyfounder, everyone there was wondering where the next story would come from.Good old fashioned American persistence and hard work were evident in every story David and Mitchell told. We caught the two of them in front of Polaris Sno-cat product #1, and also in front of a Predator. Wow, how things have changed. The opening night was capped off with the first of many first class meals. David,
Mitchell, and other factory personnel joined the group for a very warm and open meal. We had a chance to sit across from Mitchell, and toss a few ATV questions his way. A very approachable person, and also very knowledgable, we took the chance to direct a few pointed questions his way. Every answer possessed great insight, that always left us thinking, hmmm. Mitchell stressed the importance of ATV rider responsibility in staying on trails, and keeping the noise levels down. He lives with his wife quite a ways out, in nothing less than a beautiful log home. His commute to work every morning is on an ATV through the woods. He’s reminded every ride of the
beauty of nature, and the fine line which every ATV rider must operate. “We need to develop, and maintain trail systems”, is Mitchell’s moto. That way we’ll have riding experiences for years to come. To that we say Amen, Mitchell. Retreating to the hotel, after the event kick-off, I think all were very excited to get to the riding experience….seat time, that’s what it’s all about. Myself, I wondered what was coming up for these chosen few. Would this be some sort of publicity stunt with product promotion as it’s goal? Would this in fact be an experience where the general public was to evaluate and communicate ideas? We were left wondering with a belly full of Walleye….what are these people up to?
;)
you Inquisitive, do you decipher ATV related performance issues well? Can you give accurate feedback to engineers, and product development factory reps? This is the notice that was published by ATV Connection during the kickoff to the Predator Test Crew Contest. Thousands of entries later, six lucky contestants were chosen….did we mention they were lucky? All grinning like kids in a candy store, the six were flown up to Polaris’ home, Roseau, Minnesota. Nestled in extreme northern Minnesota, Roseau is only ten miles shy of the Canadian border. This is as north as you can get, without ending every sentence in “eh”. A rural farming community, with deep scandinavian roots, the pace of life is shifted into a very relaxing, quality existence. People would rather talk about the weather and crops, than the latest stock market quotes. Everyone knows;)
everyone else, and politeness and helping others is the way ofthe town are echoed in the founding family of the Polaris factory. Greeted by the originator of Polaris David Johnson, and his son Mitchell, the contestants were treated to a one of a kind tour ofthe “Polaris Experience” history center. The nastalgia nut in everyone surfacing, they listened to the trials of the companyfounder, everyone there was wondering where the next story would come from.Good old fashioned American persistence and hard work were evident in every story David and Mitchell told. We caught the two of them in front of Polaris Sno-cat product #1, and also in front of a Predator. Wow, how things have changed. The opening night was capped off with the first of many first class meals. David,;)
Mitchell, and other factory personnel joined the group for a very warm and open meal. We had a chance to sit across from Mitchell, and toss a few ATV questions his way. A very approachable person, and also very knowledgable, we took the chance to direct a few pointed questions his way. Every answer possessed great insight, that always left us thinking, hmmm. Mitchell stressed the importance of ATV rider responsibility in staying on trails, and keeping the noise levels down. He lives with his wife quite a ways out, in nothing less than a beautiful log home. His commute to work every morning is on an ATV through the woods. He’s reminded every ride of the;)
beauty of nature, and the fine line which every ATV rider must operate. “We need to develop, and maintain trail systems”, is Mitchell’s moto. That way we’ll have riding experiences for years to come. To that we say Amen, Mitchell. Retreating to the hotel, after the event kick-off, I think all were very excited to get to the riding experience….seat time, that’s what it’s all about. Myself, I wondered what was coming up for these chosen few. Would this be some sort of publicity stunt with product promotion as it’s goal? Would this in fact be an experience where the general public was to evaluate and communicate ideas? We were left wondering with a belly full of Walleye….what are these people up to?Polaris brought together quite a diverse group of contestants.
*Wesley Fruits, an Indiana GNCC racer. He currently is in the top 5 in points running on a Predator.
After a night spent tossing and turning, like it was Chritmas, we were ushered off to the Polaris factory. A program introduction made it evident that this was something that had some thought behind it. Surrounded by factory reps, and factory
testriders, there was a room full of Predator knowledge. DarylRath, factory sponsored racer, gave a very interesting timeline of the Predator concept, and it’s development into production. The concept for the machine actually began in 1999. There were many conference calls, and brainstorm sessions with Rath and engineers. The two original “swiss cheese” chassis’ were even on hand for us to inspect. The highlight of the morning had to be the information, and humor of Dean ” Yea, I’m laid back” Hedlund. He had people choking on their morning coffee with his “life here is laid back” stories. There were some real people behind this machine, all seemed to echo the work ethic of David Johnson. The introduction, once again emphasized the importance of rider honesty in the feedback they would be providing. Positive or negitive feedback on different issues and would be recording information in the rider’s log. Each rider was responsible for filling this log for each and every machine they were on. The Polaris engineering staff was really driving the point
home, that this info was going to be used. The test crew’s input was to be analyzed, and added to future decisions dealing with the Predator’s design. At this point, things got very heavy. Sure they had a free plane ride, hotel, and riding gear, but now they had to earn it. This was really going to be a possible product changing test session. The new found weight on their shoulders, the crew was handed off to Lyle Grindy. Lyle was responsible for developing the Polaris Experience Center which we toured the night before, as well as covering duties in the HR department (besides being a very nice guy). Lyle escorted the crew through a very informative factory tour. Although the plant was still quiet after the 4th of July weekend, it still gave people a great chance to witness the very expansive facility that creates these machines. Ever seen a 4′ x 4′ crate, 3 feet deep with new shocks? Holy cow, that’s some cash! The production capabilities of this factory are truly incredible, if you ever get to Roseau, get in line for the tour (4 p.m. daily). Lyle was even nice enough to take the time to walk them through the state of the art plastic facility. You name it, they make it. ATV fenders and parts, to snowmobile hoods. Plastic used to be 
called cheap, now it’s definitely high tech. The Kolorfusion plant would be their next stop. We don’t really think this was originally on the tour, but wow, everyone was very impressed, thanks Lyle! This factory is the future in plastic coatings. We were able to witness the process that transfers the Mossy Oak prints on to ATV components. Fenders, headlight housings, and even wheels. The sky is the limit for this incredibly durable finish, We’ve been witness to some custom pieces that are on the way….you’re just gonna have to stay tuned for their release. They’re oh so cool! All this walking had made most of the crew hungry, off to another Polaris orchestrated feed. These folks and their great hospitality never let you go hungry, but we think there was still a hunger for a Predator ride. Once the food was gone, we loaded up the factory vans for the trek to what the crew hoped would be some riding. A short time later, we arrived at the Polaris off-site proving grounds. Flanking the vans were two very large gravel hills, both
topped off with an army of Predators. This was a Kodak moment just screaming to happen. While we overheated the camera, the test crew contestants jumped into their provided Pure Polaris gear. Strutting out in a very sharp red and black pant and jersey combo, the riders put on their chrome shouldered chest protectors, and Predator edition helmets. They looked like something straight out of Star Wars, or Battlestar Galactica. We didn’t know whether to run, or click some pics. Thankful for you, We stayed and practically burned out the camera.
The original format was divided into three catagories, tires, suspension, and ergonomics. The course was an expansive gravel pit, borded by some woods trails. By this point, you could tell, everyone just wanted to ride. We had to keep reminding ourselves that we were to be the observer, but man, all those machines all lined up…..we wanted to ride too!!! WE tried to pick all kinds of vantage points to observe the riders. This was truly a
course with variety. As we stated earlier, there was a short trail opening, followed by some off-camber turns, a hillclimb, and some intense rolling “mini-mountains”. We had fun watching the testers negotiate the course, then return to fill out feedback forms….then out they’d go again. Wesley Fruits commented, “This is a really tough course, but this suspension, and handling really handle it great.” Some quads were stock, some had changes, it was neat to hear the comments, and watch how the engineering crew absorbed them. Hmmm, could it be? Was this a real deal? The intensity with which the Polaris crew listened, and even modified machines on the spot, was incredible to watch. These folks were for real! They were dividing up into small groups, sharing opinions, and brainstorming new ideas. The reps and the testers really tossed some great ideas around. If a test crew member opened their mouth, the engineers were right there to listen. Lynda Lanier no sooner commented about a “stiff suspension”, than the engineers were adjusting the Predator to
work with her 92 pound frame. No parts changing, just demonstrating the full range of adjustment, this machine is capable of. Barely ever taking breaks the riders really tossed the Predators through the paces, over, and over. With a cross-section of MX, Baja, and cross-country, the levels of experience were evident. They seemed to be determined to push the limits of the machine, and give their opinions as to what was working for them, and what wasn’t. We were even treated to some cat and mouse races with factory racer Daryl Rath, and factory “endurance rider” Shannon Gust. Gust is one of two factory Predator testers. Along with Matt Kmecik, these two do nothing but ride Predators all day long, yea, it’s a dream job, but what about those 20 below zero days….they’re still riding. Gust has almost 10,000 miles on the current Predator he’s riding, and over 40,000 total ATV testing miles. We’re talking hard-core here. But as with all the other factory folks, very personable,
and informative. Though Gust and Kmecik are already in place to provide quality feedback to engineering, Polaris wanted to go outside the regular routine to make sure there weren’t any avenues they were missing. This open-mindedness is something that’s very impressive to view.
*Romy Baus, an ATV MX racer from Wisconsin. He’s raced ATV’s for over 20 years. Also dabbling in some snocross racing.
*Ben Bruce, a California rider and safety instructor. He’s been on ATV’s since 1982. Heavily into designing and fabricting quads.*Wesley Fruits, an Indiana GNCC racer. He currently is in the top 5 in points running on a Predator.
*Kyle Krause, Arizona is home to this accomplished Baja 1,000 racer, who calls the desert and dunes his playland.
*Lynda Lanier, another Arizona resident, is an avid desert drag racer. She also drag races perfomance sport bikes. *Lance Schwartz, Pennsylvania is home to this cross-country racer, who currently leads the local AMA Harescramble points.
After a night spent tossing and turning, like it was Chritmas, we were ushered off to the Polaris factory. A program introduction made it evident that this was something that had some thought behind it. Surrounded by factory reps, and factory
;)
testriders, there was a room full of Predator knowledge. DarylRath, factory sponsored racer, gave a very interesting timeline of the Predator concept, and it’s development into production. The concept for the machine actually began in 1999. There were many conference calls, and brainstorm sessions with Rath and engineers. The two original “swiss cheese” chassis’ were even on hand for us to inspect. The highlight of the morning had to be the information, and humor of Dean ” Yea, I’m laid back” Hedlund. He had people choking on their morning coffee with his “life here is laid back” stories. There were some real people behind this machine, all seemed to echo the work ethic of David Johnson. The introduction, once again emphasized the importance of rider honesty in the feedback they would be providing. Positive or negitive feedback on different issues and would be recording information in the rider’s log. Each rider was responsible for filling this log for each and every machine they were on. The Polaris engineering staff was really driving the point;)
home, that this info was going to be used. The test crew’s input was to be analyzed, and added to future decisions dealing with the Predator’s design. At this point, things got very heavy. Sure they had a free plane ride, hotel, and riding gear, but now they had to earn it. This was really going to be a possible product changing test session. The new found weight on their shoulders, the crew was handed off to Lyle Grindy. Lyle was responsible for developing the Polaris Experience Center which we toured the night before, as well as covering duties in the HR department (besides being a very nice guy). Lyle escorted the crew through a very informative factory tour. Although the plant was still quiet after the 4th of July weekend, it still gave people a great chance to witness the very expansive facility that creates these machines. Ever seen a 4′ x 4′ crate, 3 feet deep with new shocks? Holy cow, that’s some cash! The production capabilities of this factory are truly incredible, if you ever get to Roseau, get in line for the tour (4 p.m. daily). Lyle was even nice enough to take the time to walk them through the state of the art plastic facility. You name it, they make it. ATV fenders and parts, to snowmobile hoods. Plastic used to be ;)
called cheap, now it’s definitely high tech. The Kolorfusion plant would be their next stop. We don’t really think this was originally on the tour, but wow, everyone was very impressed, thanks Lyle! This factory is the future in plastic coatings. We were able to witness the process that transfers the Mossy Oak prints on to ATV components. Fenders, headlight housings, and even wheels. The sky is the limit for this incredibly durable finish, We’ve been witness to some custom pieces that are on the way….you’re just gonna have to stay tuned for their release. They’re oh so cool! All this walking had made most of the crew hungry, off to another Polaris orchestrated feed. These folks and their great hospitality never let you go hungry, but we think there was still a hunger for a Predator ride. Once the food was gone, we loaded up the factory vans for the trek to what the crew hoped would be some riding. A short time later, we arrived at the Polaris off-site proving grounds. Flanking the vans were two very large gravel hills, both;)
topped off with an army of Predators. This was a Kodak moment just screaming to happen. While we overheated the camera, the test crew contestants jumped into their provided Pure Polaris gear. Strutting out in a very sharp red and black pant and jersey combo, the riders put on their chrome shouldered chest protectors, and Predator edition helmets. They looked like something straight out of Star Wars, or Battlestar Galactica. We didn’t know whether to run, or click some pics. Thankful for you, We stayed and practically burned out the camera.The original format was divided into three catagories, tires, suspension, and ergonomics. The course was an expansive gravel pit, borded by some woods trails. By this point, you could tell, everyone just wanted to ride. We had to keep reminding ourselves that we were to be the observer, but man, all those machines all lined up…..we wanted to ride too!!! WE tried to pick all kinds of vantage points to observe the riders. This was truly a
course with variety. As we stated earlier, there was a short trail opening, followed by some off-camber turns, a hillclimb, and some intense rolling “mini-mountains”. We had fun watching the testers negotiate the course, then return to fill out feedback forms….then out they’d go again. Wesley Fruits commented, “This is a really tough course, but this suspension, and handling really handle it great.” Some quads were stock, some had changes, it was neat to hear the comments, and watch how the engineering crew absorbed them. Hmmm, could it be? Was this a real deal? The intensity with which the Polaris crew listened, and even modified machines on the spot, was incredible to watch. These folks were for real! They were dividing up into small groups, sharing opinions, and brainstorming new ideas. The reps and the testers really tossed some great ideas around. If a test crew member opened their mouth, the engineers were right there to listen. Lynda Lanier no sooner commented about a “stiff suspension”, than the engineers were adjusting the Predator to;)
work with her 92 pound frame. No parts changing, just demonstrating the full range of adjustment, this machine is capable of. Barely ever taking breaks the riders really tossed the Predators through the paces, over, and over. With a cross-section of MX, Baja, and cross-country, the levels of experience were evident. They seemed to be determined to push the limits of the machine, and give their opinions as to what was working for them, and what wasn’t. We were even treated to some cat and mouse races with factory racer Daryl Rath, and factory “endurance rider” Shannon Gust. Gust is one of two factory Predator testers. Along with Matt Kmecik, these two do nothing but ride Predators all day long, yea, it’s a dream job, but what about those 20 below zero days….they’re still riding. Gust has almost 10,000 miles on the current Predator he’s riding, and over 40,000 total ATV testing miles. We’re talking hard-core here. But as with all the other factory folks, very personable,;)
and informative. Though Gust and Kmecik are already in place to provide quality feedback to engineering, Polaris wanted to go outside the regular routine to make sure there weren’t any avenues they were missing. This open-mindedness is something that’s very impressive to view. The second day kicked off with a no holds barred meal wipped up by Mark Jonhston. We were warned to bring an appetite, they weren’t kidding. If it wasn’t for another army of Predators all around us, I think people would’ve been looking for a place to take an after breakfast nap. Mark, you really need to open a
restaurant of the north. The smell of bacon cooking was just barely clearing when the first Predator was fired up. Day two brought an 8 mile woods curse, that ranked right up there with a harescramble practice course. Once again, you would think the riders would begin tiring after round after round of riding, but nothing doing, this crew was committed. The testers had formed a bond together, and with the Polaris reps. You could see the energy in their eyes, and hear the determination in their opinions. The smiles never dimmed, they just kept looking for another machine to take for a rip. Test Crew member Kyle Krause was caught saying, ” I didn’t know Polaris made such a quad, before this. I wouldn’t have even looked at their products. The first thing you normally do to a new
quad is throw out the shocks and buy aftermarket. The Predator, along with some other impressive standard features already has quality Fox shocks. After seeing the intensity of the people listening to me, and riding the Predator, they really opened my eyes. This is a quality sport machine.” Having just about worn out our camera standing on the outside, we took an oportunity to take a few blasts through the woods. We wanted to get some remote pics, and also run some of these machines through their paces. Romy Baus warned us, “The steering, suspension, and engine of the Predator really seemed to shine on this woods course. This is where the Predator is at home.” Though we didn’t really take note if the machine was stock or modified, it was always a great ride. We found a few remote locations to park and wait for the riders to bolt past. Standing alone in the dense forest, you would hear a distant rumble begin to build, followed by the thunderous blast as the riders would fly past. Mother nature was interrupted only for a moment, then the peace and quiet of the woods would quickly return. Riders were staying on Mitchell’s trails, and very nicely co-existing with all the beauty nature had to offer.
restaurant of the north. The smell of bacon cooking was just barely clearing when the first Predator was fired up. Day two brought an 8 mile woods curse, that ranked right up there with a harescramble practice course. Once again, you would think the riders would begin tiring after round after round of riding, but nothing doing, this crew was committed. The testers had formed a bond together, and with the Polaris reps. You could see the energy in their eyes, and hear the determination in their opinions. The smiles never dimmed, they just kept looking for another machine to take for a rip. Test Crew member Kyle Krause was caught saying, ” I didn’t know Polaris made such a quad, before this. I wouldn’t have even looked at their products. The first thing you normally do to a new quad is throw out the shocks and buy aftermarket. The Predator, along with some other impressive standard features already has quality Fox shocks. After seeing the intensity of the people listening to me, and riding the Predator, they really opened my eyes. This is a quality sport machine.” Having just about worn out our camera standing on the outside, we took an oportunity to take a few blasts through the woods. We wanted to get some remote pics, and also run some of these machines through their paces. Romy Baus warned us, “The steering, suspension, and engine of the Predator really seemed to shine on this woods course. This is where the Predator is at home.” Though we didn’t really take note if the machine was stock or modified, it was always a great ride. We found a few remote locations to park and wait for the riders to bolt past. Standing alone in the dense forest, you would hear a distant rumble begin to build, followed by the thunderous blast as the riders would fly past. Mother nature was interrupted only for a moment, then the peace and quiet of the woods would quickly return. Riders were staying on Mitchell’s trails, and very nicely co-existing with all the beauty nature had to offer. The day of riding eventually came to an end. We were loaded up in the vans and headed for the ever expansive Lake of The Woods. This is almost an ocean sized lake on the border of
Minnesota, and Canada. Treated to a guided launch from the Wigwam Lodge, in Baudette, Minnesota, we had Walleye’s in our sights. The lake didn’t let us down, the natural sandy bottom of the lake is a perfect breeding grounds for the state fish. As the sun began to set, the boats motored us back to the lodge for a “you caught it, we cook it” meal. As with all the meals on this trip, you never went hungry. Sharing some great riding stories from the last two days, it was fun to watch how these 6 people from all around the country had formed a bond. We cornered Lance Schwartz to gather some thoughts. “I was a believer from the start” Schwartz stated. “If I commented on suspension, someone was there to dial things in. If I asked about tires, they would change them for another brand. This is a one of a kind event.” We think the most touching moment of the entire trip happened when Tim Erickson took a 
moment to thank the riders, and then present each of them with a Wayne Davis (factory photographer), personal action shot. Their jaws hit the floor, and the room was silent. Each one of them studied the pics in total disbelief….that was the candle on top of the icing on the cake. Polaris really provided a heartfelt thank you to this group, and with the chorus of thank you from the riders, the feelings were definitely mutual.
Minnesota, and Canada. Treated to a guided launch from the Wigwam Lodge, in Baudette, Minnesota, we had Walleye’s in our sights. The lake didn’t let us down, the natural sandy bottom of the lake is a perfect breeding grounds for the state fish. As the sun began to set, the boats motored us back to the lodge for a “you caught it, we cook it” meal. As with all the meals on this trip, you never went hungry. Sharing some great riding stories from the last two days, it was fun to watch how these 6 people from all around the country had formed a bond. We cornered Lance Schwartz to gather some thoughts. “I was a believer from the start” Schwartz stated. “If I commented on suspension, someone was there to dial things in. If I asked about tires, they would change them for another brand. This is a one of a kind event.” We think the most touching moment of the entire trip happened when Tim Erickson took a ;)
moment to thank the riders, and then present each of them with a Wayne Davis (factory photographer), personal action shot. Their jaws hit the floor, and the room was silent. Each one of them studied the pics in total disbelief….that was the candle on top of the icing on the cake. Polaris really provided a heartfelt thank you to this group, and with the chorus of thank you from the riders, the feelings were definitely mutual. Once returning home, we had to take a few days to sort out this story. At first we were scepticle as to why the factory was doing this. Why would they care what the American public had to say? They were producing this “breaking the mold” machine, and it seemed to be doing great. The days following made us realize that the commitment to the product, and making it the best they
could, relied on feedback from all channels. They wouldn’t say if this was going to be a regular event, but we sure hope it is. The Polaris crew is going outside the lines, and outside their walls to make sure the product is as polished as can be. Sure sounds to us like the values of David Johnson are in very safe and capable hands. Hmmm, maybe we were the lucky ones, we had the chance to witness it. Thank you Polaris!
;)
could, relied on feedback from all channels. They wouldn’t say if this was going to be a regular event, but we sure hope it is. The Polaris crew is going outside the lines, and outside their walls to make sure the product is as polished as can be. Sure sounds to us like the values of David Johnson are in very safe and capable hands. Hmmm, maybe we were the lucky ones, we had the chance to witness it. Thank you Polaris!